MS in Macromolecular Science and Engineering with Specialization in Fire Science and Engineering

Focus on polymer chemistry and materials, and the chemistry of flammability and fire suppression in this specialized, in-demand degree program.

Firefighter putting out fire

Degree: Master of Science
Major: Macromolecular Science and Engineering
Specialization: Fire Science and Engineering

Become a leader in fire science

Changes in government policies worldwide will affect permissible retardants in critical appliances, transportation and communications within the next few years. All manufacturers of consumer products will be focused on finding new solutions to keep their products flame-retardant and safe—and they will be looking to experts in this area to lead the way.

There has never been a better time to become an expert in the field of fire science by earning a fire protection engineering degree.

Through our 30-credit-hour curriculum, students explore and learn how to apply the fundamental principles of fire protection engineering, fire behavior and dynamics, protection and suppression systems, polymeric materials structure, properties and selection and more. You can choose from two elective tracks: a mechanical track that focuses on the mechanical engineering and combustion science related to fire protection and suppression, or the materials track to focus on polymer chemistry and materials, and the chemistry of flammability and flame suppression.

Case Western Reserve offers a unique intersection of expertise in macromolecular and combustion science and mechanical and chemical engineering, making us singularly suited to cover all aspects of fire protection, safety and flammability.

Our program offers a recently developed curriculum that positions the degree at the cutting edge of fire science, and our close relationship with Underwriters Laboratories, worldwide leaders in flammability standards, means there’s no other degree that offers as comprehensive a review of fire science and engineering—and how it is utilized in industry.

Studying in Northeast Ohio’s “polymer corridor” of more than 1,500 corporations puts you at the epicenter of the nation’s advanced materials industry. And the university’s close relationship with polymer companies enhances the international network available to the program’s students and alumni.

Additionally, the university’s flagship materials program provides a fundamental underpinning to address current issues in fire prevention that are intrinsically materials related but require an understanding of the physical aspects of fire dynamics and polymer chemistry.

Graduates of this program will be able to choose from a variety of jobs in many different facets of fire protection engineering, materials and safety, including:

  • Large corporations in the consumer products, materials, transportation and aerospace fields to design and operate complex manufacturing facilities
  • Insurance companies to survey facilities
  • Safety and standards-setting organizations like UL and NIST
  • Government agencies to develop and enforce building and fire prevention codes
  • Fire departments to train, advise and implement modern techniques

Explore degree requirements, courses and more in the university's general bulletin.

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